Compassion (from Latin: “co-suffering”) is a virtue —one in which the emotional capacities of empathy and sympathy (for the suffering of others) are regarded as a part of love itself, and a cornerstone of greater social interconnectedness and humanism—foundational to the highest principles in philosophy, society and personhood.

3. Wear everything in your closet. Give away everything you don’t (and don’t buy more). The rule is, if you haven’t worn it in the past year (okay, depending on the seasons), you’re not going to wear it this year. Don’t hold onto those jeans from when you were nineteen. It may not happen again in this lifetime – it doesn’t matter – you are never more perfect than you are right now.

4. Pick up litter in your neighborhood. It’s good exercise, it’s good for everyone and it’s contagious! Make it a point to pick up a piece everyday! Give homage to our dear Earth who has carried us everyday of our existence.

5. Do something creative with a youngling. Paint, draw, make sock puppets, role play (yep, I said it), read out loud or simply enjoy their company. Help them to control the force and wield a lightsaber!

6. Make someone an offer they can’t refuse. A foot rub, hand massage, lend an ear, a shoulder or give a great big bear hug for no good reason.

8. Don’t tell lies. For one entire day, or as long as you can do it, do not utter a single white lie.

9. Appreciate nature. Go for a walk in the park. Take your time. Sit on a bench. Enjoy the flow and movement of all that coexists. It’s magic. There’s more to it than we imagine.

10. Spread the word. Memorize a profound quote, a mantra or poem. Share it with someone you love (this includes pets). And, don’t forget plants – give them some heart-felt attention, talk to them while you water.

11. Go vegan for 24-hours. Eat nothing that comes from an animal for one entire day (or the rest of your life!). Think of the suffering that animals go through before reaching our plates.

12. Give a special twinkle to everyone over 60. Of course acknowleding and smiling at everyone is the ideal way to go but, go on, make it a point to send some extra loving vibes and compassion to our local oldie but goodies.

13. Don’t start any fights. For an entire day, or as often as you can, surrender and lay down your sword. Treat every potentially volatile situation with complete compassion and patience and allow your inner voice of reason to be your guide. This includes thoughts when driving! No road rage!

14. Get out of bed in a good mood. Never again wake up on the wrong side of the bed. If you do, don’t take it seriously. Look in the mirror, smile and remind yourself that it’s great to be alive.

15. Get labeled a good-deed-doer. Be a service to others, volunteer locally, be good neighbors, be loving to your children’s friends and always allow your heart to be vast and spacious. There’s room for everyone and everything.

16. Don’t turn a blind eye. See someone in distress or that needs help, offer a compassionate hand.

17. Deal with your issues. Deal with your own sh*t and honor your mistakes. Own up to everything and don’t pass your crap on to your children, spouse, partner, colleagues or anyone you come into contact with. Stop the vicious cycle!

Photo credits

Kitty: http://www.traciehotchner.com/cc/images/your_day_cchumor1.jpg

Yoga Editor, Elephant Journal. I yoga, write, take photos and I investigate existentially. I got a thing for those who have found expression through some form of mastery or artistic fashion, and sincerity. (You set me free I set you). I adore anything that is equally cute and creepy. The most special ingredient you can find, be and put into anything is: yourself. Remember, everything you want, you already have and are. Look within. The more you use it, the more it will grow. For more randomness and love, visit me at Rebelle Lotus and, you don't want to miss the creative rebellion at Rebelle Society. Join us.